The trial of former Bosnian Serb leader Radovan Karadžić, set to begin on 26 October 2009, has been adjourned following the failure of the self-represented accused to appear in court. Karadžić had warned that he would boycott the trial in a letter to the Tribunal on 21 October, stating that he had insufficient time to prepare his defence. The trial will now be adjourned until Tuesday afternoon, when the Prosecution is set to make its opening statement.
 
"In light of the absence of the accused and of counsel to represent him, the chamber will adjourn these proceedings today," Presiding judge O-Gon Kwon said at the beginning of the trial after it was clear that Karadžić would not be present. Karadžić has so far chosen to represent himself in the proceedings, but the Trial Chamber may choose to impose counsel, appointing a lawyer for him if he continues to be absent from trial.

Radovan Karadžić